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Best Solar Companies in Iowa

We compared 59 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • ION Solar
      4.4(114)
    • ShopSolar
      4.7(157)

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      Best Solar Companies in Iowa

      If you've been thinking about going solar in Iowa but aren’t sure where to start, ConsumerAffairs is here to help you compare your options and get the best deal.

      Our top solar company picks

      To choose our top picks for this guide, we compared popular solar companies on ratings and reviews, equipment options, warranties, availability and other factors. Please read our full methodology for all the details. Our picks may be Authorized Partners that compensate us — this does not affect our recommendations or evaluations but may impact the order in which companies appear.

      Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
      • Our recommendations are based on what reviewers say.
      • 4,568,019 reviews on ConsumerAffairs are verified.
      • We require contact information to ensure our reviewers are real.
      • We use intelligent software that helps us maintain the integrity of reviews.
      • Our moderators read all reviews to verify quality and helpfulness.

      The best solar companies reviewed

      Our pick for professional installation

      ION Solar

      4.4
      114 reviews
      Max. panel efficiency
      21.9%
      Workmanship warranty
      10 years
      Year founded
      2013

      ION Solar stands out for its strong customer service and knowledgeable installers. The company offers various solar panel and system options to meet different needs and budgets. We suggest getting a personalized quote to determine if ION Solar is the best fit for you.

      • “They had the information right in front of us and we could look at the savings projection. It made sense for how it all works. The install was very easy and the communication was great. They kept us updated the whole time and they took care of the steps where they had to reach out to Xcel Energy and get permission from our HOA. It made it really easy for us. I just got my first Xcel Energy bill and I can see that we're producing most of the electricity that we need. Also, there's an app on my phone that I can use to monitor it. We have not turned the air conditioner on yet, so it might look a little bit different when we turn it on. But right now, I'm very happy. We would highly recommend them.” — K. in Cedar Rapids

      “There were some things that were a little confusing, especially the actual transition from the regular power to the solar power,” J. in Davenport told us. Still, J. said the overall experience was good.

      ION Solar operates in several states, including Iowa. It’s NABCEP certified. Installers use Silfab solar panels and Enphase microinverters. Most projects are completed in 60 to 90 days.

      ION Solar services

      • Solar system design and installations
      • Roofing services
      • Energy production monitoring
      • Ongoing system maintenance

      ION Solar panels are guaranteed to produce at least 85% capacity for 30 years. Enphase microinverters come with a 25-year warranty. All work performed on your home during the installation is covered for 10 years. If there’s anything wrong with your panel or process, you can contact its customer service team for support.

      You can purchase the system outright or finance it through a solar loan. Rates and terms vary.

      Pros

      • Sleek, black-on-black panels
      • No upfront payment required
      • 24/7 monitoring
      • Solid warranty
      • Good reviews

      Cons

      • Some communication issues
      • Some installation delays

      ShopSolar

      4.7
      157 reviews
      Buyer's Choice Award Winner
      Max. panel efficiency
      Varies
      Workmanship warranty
      Varies
      Year founded
      2018
      1x Award Winner
      Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service

      ShopSolar is an awesome place to buy solar equipment for do-it-yourself projects. We like that it has a nice selection of equipment, fast deliveries and good communication. You can find new and used solar panels, solar storage batteries, inverters, charge controllers, cabling and hardware, mounts and racks — everything needed for an off-grid or hybrid setup. It’s great if you want to install solar equipment on homes, RVs and outbuildings.

      • “Their customer service has been fantastic because every time that I emailed them, they've emailed me back with a remedy for the situation I have. They're also very thorough.” — Raymond in Wayland

      Some customers experienced problems with their purchases, such as damaged or faulty equipment. Generally, ShopSolar resolved these issues with refunds or replacements.

      The important thing to keep in mind is that ShopSolar does not offer professional installation services. It’s best to know a little about solar panels and electrical work. Otherwise, you might get frustrated with the process or install something incorrectly.

      » DIY SOLAR PANELS: Pros, cons and installation guide

      ShopSolar is an online retailer that sells custom solar kits and other equipment like generators, batteries, cables and racks. You can find top-quality brands like Panasonic, REC, Renogy, Canadian Solar and EcoFlow. Orders typically arrive within 10 business days.

      ShopSolar products

      • New and used solar panels
      • Solar generator bundles
      • Custom solar kits
      • Batteries, inverters, mounts and racks
      • Additional hardware and accessories

      ShopSolar is an authorized distributor of all the brands it sells, so all solar equipment is covered by the individual manufacturers’ warranties. If you run into a warranty issue, reps can help you contact the equipment manufacturer.

      You pay for your order in full upfront through ShopSolar’s secure website. It also has financing options for as little as $0 down.

      • Online payments: Accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Venmo, Shop Pay and Diners Club International.
      • Financing: Partners with Affirm on financing. Customers can make payments every two weeks or once a month for up to 36 months. Rates range from 0% to 36% APR as of publishing.

      Pros

      • Free shipping
      • Price match guarantee
      • 30-day return policy
      • Lifetime customer support

      Cons

      • Some shipping and delivery delays
      • Occasional issues with defective or damaged products

      Iowa solar panel buyers guide

      A typical solar panel installation in Iowa costs between $10,920 and $31,200, depending on the size of your system and what financial incentives you qualify for. That’s a lot of money for most Iowa residents. Let’s make sure that your installation is reliable, efficient and suitable for Iowa’s humid continental climate.

      Key insights

      Most installers set the price according to the system's wattage, with a typical cost between $2.50 and $5 per watt. The average cost per watt in Iowa is $3.12.

      Jump to insight

      The federal investment tax credit (ITC) is the most significant financial incentive for the majority of homeowners buying solar panels in Iowa.

      Jump to insight

      Look for companies with plenty of experience installing solar panels in Iowa. It makes it easier to navigate regulations, permits and available financial incentives.

      Jump to insight

      How much does it cost to go solar in Iowa?

      Average solar panel costs in Iowa typically range between $10,920 and $31,200. This doesn’t include the cost of a solar storage battery — which sometimes costs as much as the panels. Solar batteries are a must if you want real energy independence, especially if you want to go off-grid.

      The size of your solar panel system is another big factor in your total cost. It also depends on what incentives you’re eligible for. On the higher end, Jennifer in Colfax told us her dad’s solar panel system cost $38,000.

      Average solar installation cost by system size in Iowa

      How can I pay for solar panel installation?

      There are a few ways to pay for a residential solar energy system in Iowa. You have the option to pay the full cost upfront, but many people choose to finance their system through a solar loan.

      Leasing is cheaper upfront, but you’ll be disqualified from some of the best financial incentives, including the 30% federal solar investment tax credit. It could also (potentially) make it harder to sell your house.

      If you’re considering a solar loan or lease, always ask:

      • Is there a down payment?
      • How much will I pay per month?
      • Will my monthly payments increase, and if so, by how much?

      What to look for in a solar company in Iowa

      Based on feedback from over 100,000 verified solar customers, including several in Iowa, the best solar energy companies have a few things in common: great reviews, transparent contracts, reliable equipment and comprehensive warranties. Here’s what to expect and what to look out for when going solar in Iowa:

      • Read reviews: Research the company's track record and read reviews. Look out for red flags: Complaints about misleading sales tactics, equipment failures, billing issues and lack of communication are common themes in negative solar company reviews.
      • Get quotes: Get multiple solar quotes to compare prices and services. Be cautious of companies that provide significantly lower estimates than others (this may indicate lower quality).
      • Check certifications: We suggest hiring NABCEP-certified installers. This shows you the company takes its business seriously.
      • Ask questions: Consider whether you want a solar storage battery, electric vehicle (EV) charger or a monitoring system to ensure optimal output. It’s also smart to ask about critter guards in most parts of Iowa.
      • Read the fine print: Carefully review proposals and financials, understand legal considerations and ask about maintenance before signing an agreement with any solar company. Ensure you understand everything about the payment terms, warranty and ongoing services.

      Solar incentives in Iowa

      Statewide Iowa solar incentives are not as generous as in some other states. Residential solar systems haven’t been eligible for state tax credits since 2022.

      The federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) is usually the most significant financial incentive for homeowners. The ITC reduces your federal tax liability by 30% of the cost of your solar energy system.

      The ITC drops to 26% in 2033 and then 22% in 2034.

      For example, if you spend $10,000 installing a solar panel system, the ITC is worth $3,000. If you owe $15,000 in taxes, the ITC reduces what you owe to $12,000. The ITC is a nonrefundable credit, meaning you can only claim up to the amount of taxes you owe. However, the credit rolls over to the next tax year if you don’t use the full amount.

      Going solar in Iowa

      Typical solar installations in Iowa are grid-connected systems. This means solar panels power homes and businesses during the day, but the building can use supplemental power from the grid as needed.

      » GREENEST STATES: Iowa ranked 13th in 2024

      Are solar panels worth it in Iowa?

      For many, going solar in Iowa is worth it for reducing utility bills and reliance on local power companies. Residents in Benton, Decorah, Dubuque, Audubon and Fairmount reported significant energy savings. On average, Iowans with solar panels can avoid $46,588 in total utility costs over 25 years.

      “We did not have to pay for electricity our first three months, and then we've had a greatly reduced last two months.” Jared in Fairmount told us. “Living here in the Midwest, you catch as much sun as you can in the summer and whatever you can in the winter is kind of gravy.”

      For others, like Allissa in Decorah, it’s more about reducing carbon footprints. “I am very glad I made this purchase because I know it is good for the environment and the future,” she told us.

      Homeowners with solar panels typically save $20,000 to $90,000 over 25 years.

      With electricity costs continuing to rise, more Iowa homeowners find solar power is financially worth it in the long run. Use the National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s PVWatts Calculator to estimate how much electricity a solar panel can produce over a year on your house — just type in your address. Project Sunroof is a free solar savings estimator powered by Google Earth imagery.

      Depending on the size of your system and other factors, it might not cost as much as you think. “I got a solar panel that I never would've dreamed I could afford,” Connor in Dubuque told us. “I think I easily got my money back in savings since I got my solar power panel installed in my house. Plus it wasn't that expensive to begin with so I knew it would be that way.

      » STILL NOT SURE? Solar energy pros and cons

      FAQ

      Is my HOA allowed to restrict solar panel installations?

      Possibly. There are no state laws in Iowa that prohibit homeowners associations (HOAs) from restricting solar panels.

      How does net metering work in Iowa?

      Net metering is a system of give-and-take between you and your utility company. It lets you access power from the grid when your panels don’t generate enough electricity. You can also earn credits for sending power into the grid.

      In Iowa, most utilities offer a 1-to-1 credit, which means you receive one credit for each kWh sent back to the grid. At the end of the year, any unused credits are generally rolled over to the following year or, in some cases, may be reimbursed at a predetermined rate, typically the utility's avoided cost rate.

      How do I know if my house is a good candidate for solar?

      Plenty of unshaded roof space that faces south or west is best for optimal sun exposure. Iowa averages 3.5 to 4.5 peak sun hours each day. However, if you have a lot of shading around your house, they might not get enough sun to power your home. It’s also smart to upgrade any old, inefficient appliances first. Solar photovoltaic (PV) technologies, more commonly known as solar panels, absorb sunlight and convert it into usable electricity.

      As a rule of thumb, if your roof is more than 10 years old, consider fixing it before going solar. Installing solar panels on an old roof might mean you have to remove the panels, replace your roof and then reinstall the panels. This will cost around $5,000 for a 19-panel setup.

      » SHOULD YOU: Replace your roof before going solar?

      Can I get free solar panels in Iowa?

      We are not aware of any legitimate programs for free solar panels in Iowa. However, you can lease a solar energy system with little to no upfront costs. Look out for scams that promise free solar panels — they can cost you quite a bit of money.

      » FREE SOLAR PANELS: Are they really free?

      What is the difference between a solar lease and a PPA?

      If you lease a solar system or enter a PPA, you don't own the panels, but you benefit from the cheap electricity they produce. The solar company that owns the system is responsible for maintaining it, so you don't have to worry about ongoing maintenance costs. The key difference is how you pay.

      • Lease: Entering a solar lease is basically renting a solar panel system. As with leasing a car, you pay a fixed amount every month over a set period of time, typically 25 years.
      • Power purchase agreement: With a PPA, you don't pay a fixed monthly price. You pay for the electricity the panels produce, usually at a fixed rate that’s lower than you would receive without a PPA.

      Methodology

      The Consumer Affairs Research Team used a research-backed, data-driven approach, which was informed by our expert editors, to choose the best solar companies. For this guide, we objectively weighted several key features to get our final rankings:

      Reviews, ratings and testimonials: 40%
      We analyzed solar company reviews by verified solar customers to gauge real-world satisfaction. Companies with generally positive feedback on our site scored highest in this aspect. Those with the most 4- and 5-star reviews by verified Iowa customers were given preference.

      Warranties: 20%
      A long warranty is important — it shows that a company stands behind its products and services. We compared companies on both equipment and craftsmanship warranty terms. All of our top picks for professional installation have warranties or production guarantees of at least 10 to 25 years.

      Equipment selection: 20%
      We evaluated each company’s selection of solar panels, storage batteries and inverters. Those with proprietary technology or a wide equipment selection from trusted brands ranked highest.

      Financing and payment options: 10%
      We gave preference to companies that offer multiple payment and financing options for transparent terms and conditions.

      Reputation and local experience: 10%
      We prefer to recommend those with a longer time in business and a solid track record of reliability in Iowa. Solar is a booming industry, and there are some sketchy installers out there. Company history, current reputation, mission and values were also considered.

      Our goal is to highlight solar companies that are best equipped to meet most Iowans’s needs. The team regularly evaluates customer reviews, company information and industry trends to update our top picks:

      • ION Solar: Our pick for professional installations
      • ShopSolar: Our pick DIY projects

      Not sure how to choose?

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        Guide sources

        ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from other reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this article include:

        1. DSIRE, "Iowa Programs.” Accessed March 29, 2024.
        2. EnergySage, "“The cost of solar panels in Iowa.” Accessed March 29, 2024.
        3. Solar Energy Industries Association, "Iowa Solar." Accessed March 29, 2024.
        4. SolarReviews, "How much do solar panels cost in Iowa, 2024?" Accessed March 29, 2024.
        5. Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC), “Solar Licensing Database.” Accessed May 22, 2024.
        6. Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy, “Homeowner’s Guide to the Federal Tax Credit for Solar Photovoltaics.” Accessed Feb. 8, 2024.
        7. Iowa Department of Revenue, “Solar Energy System Tax Credits.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2024.

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